In a setback for the Pakistan cricket team, spinner Abrar Ahmed is highly likely to miss the first Test of the upcoming three-match series against Australia, scheduled to commence on December 14. The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) officially confirmed this development on December 8, citing discomfort in Abrar’s right leg.
The left-arm spinner experienced the discomfort during the warm-up game between Pakistan and the Prime Minister’s XI in Canberra, where he had to leave the field on Day 3. Though Abrar managed to take one wicket, conceding 80 runs in 27 overs, his participation in the remainder of the series is now uncertain.
The PCB is taking a cautious approach, with Abrar scheduled to undergo an MRI scan on Saturday, December 9, to assess the extent of the injury. If the scan reveals no serious concerns, he might still miss the first Test, and his return timeline remains uncertain.
With Abrar’s potential absence, Pakistan’s spin options are limited, relying mainly on Noman Ali as the other specialist spinner. Considering the traditionally pace-friendly conditions at the Optus Stadium in Perth, Pakistan might opt for a pace-heavy attack or consider Noman as the sole spinner.
Pakistan enters the Test series after a subpar performance in the ODI World Cup 2023, where they finished in fifth place. With a change in captaincy, led by Shan Masood, Pakistan aims for an improved showing against Australia. The team will face a tough challenge on Australian soil and will be eager to make a strong start, even in the absence of Abrar Ahmed.
As the first Test approaches, cricket enthusiasts will be keenly observing Pakistan’s strategy and performance, especially considering the challenges posed by the conditions and the formidable Australian team.
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